Book clubs are a fun way to get teens thinking about a topic and discussing it. And a book club discussion can be held in person or virtually. All you need is a good book to be the foundation of your conversation.
Activities
What Do I Treasure? Activity and Reflection Questions
Jesus often challenged people about their values. The Pearl of Great Price, the Buried Treasure, the Lost Coin are all parables about what is important to us and to our Heavenly Father. He also observed the poor widow, who gave all she had to the temple treasury. This exercise helps us consider what is valuable to us.
Toothpick Sculptures, Models, or Constructions
Hands on activities are fun for youth ministry or Vacation Bible School (VBS). One way to incorporate a fun activity is to have students make toothpick sculptures or models to represent your theme. Here are some ideas for items which can be used as materials.
Seeing the Big Picture Youth Ministry Game
Sometimes we don’t see “the big picture”. That makes it difficult for us to understand why the Holy Spirit is leading us somewhere unfamiliar or why the Church has a teaching. This game is designed to help youth understand that it can be disorienting or difficult to understand something if we only see it from a small perspective.
American Saint Activity Series: St. Kateri Tekakwitha
The American Saints Activity series helps families learn more about American saints in hopes that they will look to them as role models. One of the offerings in the series is based on the life of St. Kateri Tekkwitha.
People Sort Activity
This is an activity which can be used as an icebreaker or opening activity for a youth group meeting focused on human dignity, immigration, or institutional racism. Use the debrief time to have an honest discussion about why we group people by race rather than other characteristics.
Privilege Walk for Teens
A Privilege Walk is an exercise where participants consider how circumstances in their lives can be benefits or detriments. These are circumstances which are beyond their control, largely related to the families they were born into and the resources they have.
Affirmation Bracelet (Friendship Bracelet)
An affirmation bracelet is both a craft and an activity. The bracelets are made by sharing a bead with a friend and saying what unique quality you like about that person.
Sea Slime (for VBS or Youth Ministry)
Slime is easy to make and fun for kids to play with. Mix up a batch of sea slime for your ocean themed Vacation Bible School or youth group meeting.
Glow in the Dark Sidewalk Chalk
Glow in the dark sidewalk chalk is a fun addition to an nighttime activity. You can use it to welcome youth to the event, write inspirational messages, or let your participants have a creative outlet.